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German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius is seeking parliamentary approval for a substantial 4.7 billion euro ($5 billion) submarine acquisition, demonstrating Germany’s commitment to strengthening its naval capabilities and meeting NATO obligations.
The proposed purchase includes four Type 212CD submarines from Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems, a move aimed at enhancing protection of NATO’s northern flank according to internal ministry documents reviewed by Spiegel news magazine.
The German Navy has completed a two-week test of the unmanned Israeli submarine #BlueWhale, developed by #Israel Aerospace Industries (#IAI). #DeutscheMarine #Germany pic.twitter.com/pMIBoUduQJ
— Boris Alexander Beissner (@boris_beissner) November 28, 2024
While Thyssenkrupp has yet to comment on the potential deal, the defence ministry has described ongoing parliamentary discussions regarding defence procurement as “good and constructive,” though specific details weren’t provided.
The budget committee is carefully evaluating the funding request. Committee member Karsten Klein of the Free Democrats (FDP) stated, “We are paying particular attention to the proposal to purchase additional submarines due to its importance in terms of security policy, but also because of the high amount of funds required.”
This procurement initiative comes amid long-standing criticism from former President Donald Trump regarding NATO members’ defense spending. Trump has consistently pushed European allies to increase their military investments rather than depending primarily on American support.
Trump’s stance on NATO members’ financial obligations was clearly expressed last February when he declared, “You didn’t pay? You’re delinquent?… No I would not protect you. In fact, I would encourage them to do whatever the hell they want. You gotta pay. You gotta pay your bills.”
🇩🇪🇮🇱 Germany built and delivered a submarine to Israel.
Israeli Navy's latest submarine, INS Drakon, was officially launched in Kiel, Germany yesterday.
The submarine is assumed to be capable of carrying nuclear armed cruise missiles. pic.twitter.com/U854hr7DRT
— Lord Bebo (@MyLordBebo) November 13, 2024
Germany’s move appears to align with increasing pressure on NATO members to meet their defense commitments and reduce dependence on U.S. military support.
